SIXTH ANNUAL "TASTE OF HOPE"

 New York - (March 22) Total Sell Out for 2012 and we helped raise a record amount of money for a good cause City of Hope. http://www.cityofhope.org/

And it was great to see our Industry friends and of we didn't have a bad wine all night.

At my table (#1) we brought back the winning wine label from last year to face a new challenger.



Chad Brown surveys the wine



Table #36 (hosted by BT)

Champagne Toast - Salute!

1)  Veuve Clicquot Brut Rose' 



"Chardonnay Challenge"

2)  2009 Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Russian River 95 pts.WS #23/Top 100. (Winner from '11)

3)  2009 Pahlmeyer 95 pts Robert Parker. One of the top Chards in California.

These two wines were too close to call, I could hardly tell the difference.

"Please Mr. Pinot"

4) 2007 Chasseur Sonoma Coast 96 pts Only 284 cases made. Last years' winner.

5) 2007 Seasmoke Foxen Sta Rita Hills. 92 pts Only 470 cases made.

 Lots of interest in the Chasseur, think it benefitted from being served 1st, because it hits you with big flavor up front, while the Seasmoke was big and smooth start to finish.



10 years of 2000's Cali Cabs

We served the next wines in groups of two.

"DECADE of DECADENCE"

Napa Cabernet's from the 2000 decade.

6) 2009 Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon 93 pts

7) 2008 Groth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 96 pts

Both amazing wines, too close to call, Caymus was a little more fruit forward.

8) 2007 Chateau Montelana 94 pts

9) 2006 Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 96 pts biggest one of the 2000's

This was not test - Mondavi killed the Montelana. And was one of the top wines of the night.





Marc Chase & Rich Meyer still alive after 6 wines







10) 2005 Jarvis "Lake William" 95pts Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend.(39% CS, 34% CF/24% MR, 3% PV).

11) 2004 Diamond Creek Red Rock Terrace 92 pts. 2011 winner.

Jarvis was a sleeper and if you liked Cabernet Franc, you really liked this wine, it made the Diamond Creek seem thin.

12) 2003 Joseph Phelps Insignia 96 pts. Cab. Sauv 84%/Petit Verdot 10%/Merlot & Malbec 3%.

13) 2002 Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 91 pts

Who can win vs. Insignia? On its own the Whitehall would have been a standout. Insignia one of the top wines of night.

14) 2001 Flora Spring Hillside Reserve 92 pts

15) 2000 Harlan - The Maiden 92 pts special contribution from Jim Ryan who can't attend this year.

After tasting the Insignia, the Maiden didn't measure up. Again on any other night we'd been raving about any of these wines, but in this company the big wines were Chasseur, Mondavi and Insignia.





Alissa Pollack and crew

"Table #28 "Mediabase & Premier People"

"White Wedding" 

1) 2010 Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay Napa Valley 90 pts

2) 2009 Kistler Chardonnay Sonoma Mountain 94 pts

Kistler was amazing, but the Mediabase people seem to like the Cakebread.

"Power to the Pinot"

3) 2009 Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. 89 pts

4) 2009 Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. 91 pts

Patz & Hall was well liked.

“California Dreaming”

Bennett Lane Cabernet Vertical featured at Wine Spectator's Grand Tour of 90+ pt wines. http://www.bennettlane.com/

5) 2006 Bennett Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 92 pts

6) 2005 Bennett Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 91 pts

"Heritage of Meritage"

4 year vertical of “Trilogy” An award winning Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend originally started out by using only 3 of the 5 noble Bordeaux grapes.

7) 2007 Flora Springs Trilogy 93 pts Robert Parker (Cab Sauv/Merlot/Petit Verdot)

8) 2006 Flora Springs Trilogy (Cab Sauv/Merlot/Cab Franc & Petit Verdot)

9) 2005 Flora Springs Trilogy (Cab Sauv/Merlot/Cab Franc & Malbec)

10) 2004 Flora Springs Trilogy (Cab Sauv/Merlot/Cab Franc & Petit Verdot)

The '04 was really nice!

"French Kiss"

11) 2005 Chateau Rollan de By-Medoc 90 pts. Wine Spectator #96. (CS/CF/PV/MR)

Very interesting wine and affordable.

thanks to Josh & Stu for helping get all the wine upstairs!

AND HOT OFF THE PRESS AND UPDATED AT 3:52PM

Table #3!



"Welcome Whites" 

1) 2009 Shafer Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch 93 pts.WS #65/Top 100.

2) 2009 Bernard Moreau et Fils Chassagen-Montrachet 1st Cru. 90 pts

3) 2006 DuMol Chardonnay Isobel 92 pts.



The DuMol may have been the best Chardonnay I tasted all night.

“Rhone Rangers...France vs. California”

5) 2004 E. Guigal CHATEAU-du-Pape. 92 pts.

4) 2009 Tablas Creek Vineyard "Cotes de Tablas" 93 pts WS #37/Top 100.



Wines at table #3

Rhone blend from the makers of Cheateau Beaucastel consisting of Grenache 43%, Syrah 24%, Counoise 18% and Mourvedre 13%.

E. Guigal was very nice

“Spain vs. Sonoma”

5) 2004 Daphne Glorian - Priorat Clos Erasmus. WS 94 pts Spanish style Pinot Noir.

6) 2003 Macphail Pinot Noir - Sonoma Coast Sangiacomo Vineyard - 93 pts. James Macphail was the wine maker at Merry Edwards.

Both of the above were amazing - Erasmus is very interesting wine and too bad we didn't have the Macphail to battle Chasseur back at table #1, it was really special.

“California Cab Vertical”

Bennett Lane Cabernet Vertical as featured for 3 years in a row at Wine Spectator's Grand Tour Event highlighting 90+ point wines. http://www.bennettlane.com/

7) 2006 Bennett Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 92 pts

8) 2005 Bennett Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 91 pts

9) 2004 Bennett Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 91 pts

All of these were drinking very nice.

"Napa vs. Bordeaux"

Meritage is California's name for their Bordeaux Blends..

10) 2005 Jarvis "Lake William" Napa Valley Meritage 95pts. (39% CS, 34% CF/24% MR, 3% PV).

11) 2005 Chateau Rollan de By-Medoc 90 pts. Wine Spectator #96. (CS/CF/PV/MR)

Lots of excitement on the Jarvis at this table too, it is a very big wine.

And the big finale!

12) 2003 Turley Napa Valley - Petite Syrah Hayne Vineyard. 95 pts Robert Parker: "Displays the telltale squid ink-like color with some purple hues, and a stupendous nose of pure, black fruits intermixed with minerals, licorice, and incense".



This wine aged very well and was a nice finishing wine for the folks at Table #3

It was an amazing night and we didn't have any bad wines - and teasing 2013 we'll do Italy vs. Cali!

-Brian







(Bob Hope) Humana Classic

California Desert - its nice that the PGA Tour makes a stop in La Quinta. For the 1st time since 1965 its not called the Bob Hope Classic that's a little sad  but I'm not sure a lot of 25 year olds even know who Bob is...but the good news this year the guest hope is President Bill Clinton and they changed the format to more normal 4 day tournament - its more about golf now and is only on 3 golf courses - PGA Palmer & Nicklaus Private and right across the street from me at La Quinta Country Club. Amateurs only play 3 days with the cut being made on Sunday.

And the crowds are up this year as was the wind on Saturday with gusts over 65 mph, I watched Bill Clinton hit his ball in the water on 10th tee and shortly thereafter the tourney was post poned due to the wind. They evacuated the Humana Village as tents were falling down in the wind.

Several of my Disney Pro-Am golf pros were there and were doing quite well. Kevin Kisney, Spencer Levin and Johnson Wagner who won the Sony Open the week before in Hawaii. Spoke to Johnson on the 18th tee box on Friday and told him evidently plays a lot better when I'm not in his foursome...he is one who's sporting a mustache now and after talking to him he feels its good luck, but his wife hates it.

If you visit the California Desert one of the great places to visit is Old Towne La Quinta. http://oldtownlaquinta.com/  A main street loaded with boutiques, cafes, shops and a spa and...

THE WINE BAR at Old Town.

Not only do they have a great selection of California Wines I can't find in NY at prices too low to advertise, they also do regular Saturday tastings from 2 - 6pm and this week distributor Southern Wine & Spirits is on hand with some great values.

1) Brassfield "Serenity" 2010 white blend $9.99 - skipped it because I was driving.

2) Paraiso Reisling 2008 $16.99 - very refreshing after a day in the sun and not too sweet for my taste.

3) Darcie Kent Sauvignon Blanc 2009 - $8.00

4) Darcie Kent Chardonnay 2009 - $8.00 Don't the price fool you, I would have never know that this was the price point. Very nice balance and big finish.

5) Darcie Kent Pinot Noir 2008 - $8.00 Another one that I wouldn't have believed this price. Nice fruit up from with a smokey earthy finish.

6) Belle Glos - Pinot Noir 2010 "Clark & Telephone" $39.99 I really liked the Darcie Pinot above until I tasted this...everything you want from a Pinot and its only going to get better. Big Flavor up front and a finish that goes on for days. Very nice wine!

7) Hillary Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $25.00. I was not familar with this wine, but really like it and feels like a steal at this price.

8) Luna Sangiovese 2008 $19.99. I visited this winery a lot off Silverado Trail in Napa and feel like its always been a great value for a very interesting wine.

Now the other good news about THE WINE BAR if you purchase a bottle there, you can order food and drink it at the bar or table with no corkage fee. And you'll get to meet a lot of the locals too.

Across the street is Grill on Main Street where I love their Fish & Chips.
Above that is Hog's Breath Inn - nice restaurant started by Clint Eastwood.
Also next door is Stuft Pizza another local hangout with a great happy hour and amazing Pizza.
And moving into the new location in Old Towne is Solano - where there's normally a wait every night at their old location.
And just down a street is El Ranchito - a little hole in the wall Mexican Restaurant that has the best food.

Over at the La Quinta Resort - check out Morgans and 26 two great place for dinner. http://www.laquintaresort.com/

Well my friend Johnson Wagner mustache and all gave it a run on Sunday but finished 2nd behind Mark Wilson.

The desert is amazing place and I always feel at peace with the world there, something so calming about it.

And although its no longer called the Bob Hope Classic his memory will never be forgotten in the desert.

Thanks Bob for all the memories.

-Brian 

CHICAGO My Kind of Town

I'm in my hometown of Chicago for the "2011 Radio Show" which really takes me full circle because its the same place as my first convention when I was a baby DJ back in the early 80's at the same place Hyatt Regency Hotel on Wacker Drive.

I moderated two panels this year; "OWNing Your Brand" with Erik Logan from Harpo Ent, Brian Phillips from CMT and Marc Chase of NuVoodoo Media and "Talking to Your Talent" with morning show consultant Steve Reynolds.

But let's get to the fun stuff all the great food and fine wine.

Roka Akor - Tuesday night sales dinner with CBS sales and new friends from Katz Media. Voted as one of the top 10 Sushi Spots in the US by Bon Appetit. They have a robata grill and every item has so many amazing flavors. Corner of W. Illinois and Grant across from Frontera. While they have Kirin beer on tap we enjoy some of their great wine from Napa. www.rokaakor.com/Chicago

1) Honig 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon - by the glass

2) POV 2006 from Robert Sinskey - Stands for "Point of View" a propietary Red Bordeaux Blend while his winery is in the Stag's Leap district of Napa right on Silverado Trail these grapes are from Carneros region. Fantastic. http://www.robertsinskey.com/

3) Justin - Justification 2005 - A right bank Bordeaux Blend led by Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Vineyard located in the Paso Robles AVA this wine was drinking absolutely fantastic. http://www.justinwine.com/

Petterino's - A Chicago favorite located in the Theatre District. http://www.petterino's.com/
We all had successful panels earlier in the day so its time to celebrate Wednesday night with Lori from Jacob's Media, and new friends Glenn and Bill. Their special of the night was Redfish, normally wouldn't order fish at an Italian Eatery but it was amazing and we paired it with:
1) TAZ - 2006 Pinot Noir, Fiddlestix Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills. Pinots from this region are some of the best in California thanks to hot days and very cool nights. http://www.tazvineyards.com/

Bandera - (312) 644-3524 The weather has cooled off in Chicago and I'm out with friends Frank, Mike and John as we head over to great restaurant on 535 N. Michigan Ave. that you can't even see from that side of the street because its on the 2nd floor and you'd walk right by it. Come hungry because this restaurant has big portions and an amazing wine list. Ok here are some of the must-haves on the menu; #1 Tuna Poke with Shrimp and avocado, Cornbread & Foccacia, Mac & Cheese with cornbread crumbles and the "Hacked" Chicken Salad for starters. For dinner I had the Center-Cut Filet with mashed potatoes and spinach and I couldn't even come close to finishing it....but let's get to the WINE - we are blown away from their list and we start with a battle or Pinots...

1) Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir 2008. WS 87pts http://www.meiomiwines.com/
Tasting notes: Juicy Pomegranate and plum fruit flavors. This is Frank's choice and its very nice, but we have another contender from the Sonoma Coast...

2) Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2008. WS 93 pts
This is the highest review they have ever received from the Wine Spectator and it made their Top 100 list for 2009. Some tasting notes from winery; "This fruit driven, lush, harmonious, bold, mouthcoating wine blows other Pinots out of the water! with layers of brown sugar, cedar and rose petals balance out the smooth tannins and youthful body. The 2009 is already sold-out at the winery...there is still some 2008 out there, get it while you can! This was my choice...Frank evidently forgot who he was competing against...hey I get lots of practice!

And we're not done there is an absolute gem on the menu - I always look for the best taste and value on the menu and here is an unforgettable one

3) Diamond Creek - Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 WS 94pts
The rarest of their 3 vineyards with only 5 acres of grapes Gravelly Meadow is the their lowest yielding vineyards with the others being Red Rock Terrace and Volcanic Hill. I was just at the vineyard for barrel tastings and the winery was selling it for $175 and it was only $5 more here (I even looked up the pricing from an earlier post on this blog)...like if we called the winery right then and ordered a bottle and had it Fed-Exed it would cost more so we go for it! And with the amazing steaks this wine is one of the best I've had all year "F---ing Amazing!" The tasting notes "Earthy, Cedar, jammy and ripe blackberry with a spicy expansive finish." I'm going to have to find another bottle soon!
http://www.diamondcreekvineyards.com/

ENOlogy at the Fairmont. This is one of the reasons I love staying at this hotel for the wine bar in the lobby. And they had some great wine by the glass.
1) Chimney Rock - Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Tomahawk Vineyard, Stags Leap District
2) Chimney Rock - "Elevage"2007 Estate grown Bordeaux Blend led by Merlot.
3) Scherrer - Chardonnay 2007 Helfer Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Frontera - Home to chef Rick Bayless and creator of Frontera gourmet foods - love his salsa.
Yes there is an amazing Mexican restaurant in Chicago on 445 N. Clark Street, just across the street from Roka Akor. It is absolutely packed on Friday, but luckily a couple leaves the bar and we get the seats. Can't go wrong with the Chicken Tacos, but the Haberno salsa is so much hotter than the one at the grocery store - more Pacifico's Porfavor!

And any trip to Chicago would not be complete without a visit to Wrigley Field to see the Cubs. Sadly we won't hear "Hello again everybody Harry Caray from Wrigley Field and its a beautiful day for baseball" we miss you! Its a quick cab ride from Wacker and tickets are still available at the box office - just 7 rows off the field from 1st base. You can't go wrong with a Brat and some Old Style beer. Its warmer today the sun is out and the CUBS Win 2-1!

Its funny I got into radio with the goal of making it to Chicago and I never have, but Chicago is my kind of town and I love it! of course before winter.

-Brian

Being A Tourist in Napa

After living in the East Bay for over a decade it was so easy to visit Napa the same way everytime, head up Silverado Trail and see my buddies at my favorite wineries and stop off for a cheeseburger at Auberge. But's what it like to stay in downtown Napa and hit up wineries and restaurants that I've never been to? It was time to be a Tourist In Napa.
WINERIES:

VINTNER'S COLLECTIVE
1245 Main Street, downtown Napa and its just around the corner from the AVIA hotel. This tasting room has over 80 wines to sample from an elite group of Napa winemakers. Including Ancien Wines, Gemella, Buoncristiani, Chiarello, Clark-Claudon, D-Cubed, Flanagan, Hestan, JC Cellars, Lamborn Family, Las Bonitas, Longfellow, Melka, Mi Sueno, Parallel, Phelan, Richard Perry, Showket and Vionce. Highlights: 2009 Ancien Chardonnay Carneros $34, 2009 Pinot Mink $45, 2008 Pinot Russian River $45, 2007 Buoncristiani Prop Red with Syrah $48, 2008 Chiarello Petite Sirah Roux $45, 2006 D-Cubed Zin Brown vineyard $45, 2008 Lamborn Zin Howell Mt. "Frosty" $42, 2009 Parellel Chard Russian Riv $44, 2007 Vinoce Cab Mt Veeder $45 and Prop. Red Mt Veeder $60 and Showket tasting. info@vinterscollective.com (707) 255-7150 Very cool place that you could visit everyday and not run out of unique wines to taste.

MACPHAIL

851 Magnolia Drive in Healdsburg. Proprietor and winemaker James MacPhail has worked for some of the valley's best producers including Merry Edwards so he's learned a thing or two about making amazing Pinot's. Tastings in the barn (not his cool house next door) by appt only and James does the tasting himself and I was impressed with his knowledge, business skills and marketing savvy to get so much positive press on his wines. But after tasting his Pinot's I now why there is such a big buzz. He oversees 23 different vineyards for his grapes of his wines. Highlights: 2009 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay-Gaps Crown $45 white Burgundy style this is his 1st Chardonnay. 2010 Rose Pinot Noir this very limited wine is fantastic and he is leading the charge for a "Rose Renaissance" in the valley, I'm on board! 2009 Pinot Noir Ray's Vineyard from Anderson Valley Mendocino $49 only 8 barrels made. 2009 Pinot Sonoma Coast Gaps Crown #1 region for Pinot $49, Something special 2003 Pinot Sangiacomo Vineyard 92pts in WS - WOW! (707) 433-4780 http://www.macphailwines.com/

RAMEY WINE CELLARS

25 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg. David Ramey is another producer that doesn't grow their own grapes. Private tasting upstairs in a conference room above where they produce their wine. 8 wines on tap for the tasting. 1) 2008 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay a blend of vineyard only 5,500 cases. 2) 2008 Ritchie Vineyard Russian River Valley a Wente clone Chard originally planted in 1972 only 1,290 cases. 3) 2008 Hyde Carneros, vine selection is old Wente, Robert Young and Long Vineyards 2,300 cases. 4)2008 Hudson Vineyard Carneros only 1,120 cases. You would be happy with any of those 4 big Chardonnays with #4 being the most masculine.And now on to the reds 5) 2008 Sonoma Coast Syrah only $38 with 1,100 cases. 6) 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that is a blend of 88% Cab, 4% Malbec, 3% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Cab Franc very nice wine at $50 with 7,800 cases. 7) 2006 Annum Cabernet Sauvignon - Latin word meaning year as one year proprietary blend. The blend is 96% Cab, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Cab Franc and 1% Malbec. $110 with only 860 cases produced. 8) Pedregal Vineyard Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon another blend with 16% Petit Verdot with 600 cases produced. I end up buying a vertical of the Napa Cab. info@rameywine.com (707) 433-0870

ALPHA OMEGA
In Rutherford on Hwy 29 is one of the prettiest tasting rooms in the Valley.
Highlights include 2010 Unoaked Chardonnay $36, 2009 Chardonnay $58, 2010 Rose $28, 2008 Napa Cab $84 and 2008 Prop. Red $88. www.aowinery.com (707) 963-9999

PROVENANCE VINEYARDS
1695 St Helena Hwy 29. Rutherford
Purchases: 2007 Winemakers Reserve on sale $30, 2007 Rutherford Cab Sauv $45 and the 2008 Cab Franc $35. www.provenancevineyards.com (707) 968-3633

JARVIS
2970 Monticello Road, Napa - up in the hills is a great cave that contains Jarvis.
The Cave tour is $40 and includes a sit town tasting and you get to see an inside waterfall that helps regulate the temperature and humidity of the cave.
Jarvis produces some outstanding award winning wines. Highlights of the tasting included; 1) 2007 Estate Chardonnay $48 sold out, 2) 2008 Unfiltered Chardonnay 92pts WS $95, 3) 2007 Will Jarvis Science Project 92pts WS $105, 4) 2007 Merlot $75, 5) 2007 Lake William Blend $115, 6) 2005 Cab Sauv $95 and 2006 Cab Franc $65. I was so impressed with the quality of their wines that I joined their club and received an invite to the Emerald Masquerade Ball on Saturday, Oct 8th, 2011. www.jarviswines.com (707) 255-5280

DEL DOTTO
They have two tasting rooms in Napa one on Hwy 29 and the original one on Atlas Peak road. Bar tastings for $30 and Cave Experience/Barrel Tasting for $50. Highlights - 2007 Napa Valley Cave Blend 80% Merlot, 10% Cab and 10% Sangiovese their take on a super Tuscan. Plus a 2009 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Cinghiale Vineyard $75 and 2009 Napa Valley Cab Franc $85. www.deldottovineyards.com

DIAMOND CREEK
1500 Diamond Mountain Road, Calistoga. During this year's City of Hope Charity Wine Dinner the big winner was a bottle of Red Rock Terrace Cab so I've really wanted to visit the winery. And this weekend they were doing a big open house up at the mountain lake, where had I know you can pack a picnic, go fishing and swimming too and make a whole day out of it. Diamond Creek makes exclusively Cabernet Sauvignon from three regions of their estate; Red Rock Terrace, Volcanic Hill and Gravelly Meadow. After the tour the highlights is tasting the barrel samples from the 3 different vineyards which I seemed to like Red Rock and Gravelly Meadow the best. Special wine offered that day 2003 Red Rock Terrace , 2005 Volcanic Hill and 2006 Gravelly Knoll all $175 and some really special bottles 1999 Volcanic Hill $225, a 1999 Lake $400 a wine they have made only 13 times and 1.5L Lake for $800. I found it interesting how they achieve natural blending and that Merlot and Cab Franc is planted along side the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and ends up being in the blend every year as determined by Mother Nature. They do have a separated Petit Verdot vineyard to complement the blends. I'm going to plan ahead for the next open house and bring the suit and fishing rod. info@diamondcreek.com (707) 942-6926.

JOHN ANTHONY VINEYARDS
1440 First Street in downtown Napa. Tasting room open until Midnight Thursday - Saturday nights. Tastings include Sauvignon Blanc $20 to a 2006 Cab at $84.


RESTAURANTS:

BOON FLY CAFE at the CARNEROS INN
4040 Sonoma Hwy, Napa Cuvaison Napa Carneros Chardonnay 2009- 1/2 bottle with Fish Tacos (Rock Cod) www.thecarnerosinn.com (707)-299-4821

REDD
6480 Washington St, Yountville. Just down the street from French Laundry. Lobster Risotto, Skate, Scallops and nectarine Arugula pecan salad. Shibi Knoll 2009 Pinot Noir. Great food and great prices on their wine list - a definite repeat. (707) 944-2222 http://www.reddnapavalley.com/

BARNDIVA
Downtown Healdsburg in Sonoma County. People are waiting to enter and I can see why the Kobe burger was amazing, but broke up the wine tasting with Lagunitas IPA. Very cute place.

OENOTRI
Italian Restarant located across First Street from the hotel. Serving quality artisanal pizza, cooked in an imported a wood-fueled Acino oven from Naples to bake authentic pizza Napoletana. Great pizza, but sadly no California wines by the glass. (707) 252-1022

DEAN & DELUCA
On Hwy 29 in St. Helena. They have a great new wine section - see Allan Bree the in house wine specialist. They have assembled an amazing collection of great California wines. This is a great place to get breakfast or lunch than walk next door to Flora Springs, sit out back and do your tasting while enjoying your sandwich. (707) 967-9980

BANK CAFE
Located inside the Westin Hotel on 1314 McKinstry Street in downtown Napa. This is the cafe sister to LaToque. You can sit at the bar or outside by the firepit. Try the Miner Chardonnay and the Etude Pinot Noir by the glass. This would be another great hotel to stay at in Napa.

Other Places to check out in downtown Napa:

• Oxbow Market

• Bounty Hunter

• Carpe Diem

• Angele

• Celadon

And several great Mexican Restaurants located in walking distance of the hotel.

Lodging

AVIA HOTEL
1450 First Street, downtown Napa. Have never stayed in downtown and was pleasantly surprised how nice it is, next door is a winery tasting room John Anthony that stays open late on Friday and Saturday nights. The Oxbow Public Market is a few blocks away and there are great restaurants all over. 707-224-3900 www.aviahotels.com

or try:

Westin Napa

Napa River Inn

http://www.napadowntown.com/

Wine Spectator's 10th Annual Grand Tour

This is the 10th annual Grand Tour for Wine Spectator and I've been lucky enough to attend the last 6, but this year it stops in Boston at the Marriott Copley Plaza instead of Marriott Marquis in New York. Its sold out and its a very manageable crowd event though are on one floor versus two in NY.

Here are the wines in tasting order and than a list of faves.
And what better way to start than a big Bordeaux from France and a big Napa Cap and we're off...
1) Chateau Margaux - 2004. WOW!
2) Robert Mondavi - Cab Sauv Reserve 2007 - Another WOW!
3) Rubicon Estate 2007 from Francis Ford - very nice
4) Chateau Mouton Rothschild Pauillac 2005 - it doesn't get any better.
5) Caymus Special Select 2008 - has 15% Merlot and very nice.
6) Chateau Pontet - Canet Pauillac 2008
7) Chateau Rolan de By - Medoc 2008 - I'm really developing a French palate in the last few years. This is amazing and its under $30 for a Wine Spectator Top 100 - Nice.
8) Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte - Peassac-Leognan 2008
9) Casa Lapostolle 2008 - Chile. Never know which wines from this company are the good ones.
10)Vina Cobos Malbec 2007 - This is Paul Hobbs from Mendoza, Argentina. And Paul never disappoints.
11) St. Clement Cab Sauv Oroppas 2007 - This blend is Sapporo spelled backwards. Very nice.
12) Chateau St. Jean - Cing Cepages 2007 - 1st Sonoma wine of the night.
13) Hall Exzellenz - Rutherford 2007 - Have loved Kathryn's cab, but this the 1st blend I've tasted from Hall and its amazing.
14) Chateau Palmer - Margaux 2004. Only a few bottles left and we get a taste. Get my travel agent on the phone going to France...
15) Joseph Phelps Insignia 2006 - My Absolute Fave - and stands up to everything tonight.
16) Chateau Giscours - Margaux 2005 - I have to travel to Margaux region of Bordeaux, becoming my favorite region.
17) Chateau Brance-Cantenac - Margaux 2003 - ready to book my flight to France.
18) Chateau du Tertre - Margaux 2005 - This was my other Value Deal of the night - amazing Margaux for under $50 and it has 20% Cab Franc -LOVE IT.
19) Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2005 - South African blend of 69% Cab, 9% Merlot and my fave 22% Cab Franc - had no idea they were making these great blends on that continent.
20) Chateaux Lynch-Bages - Pauillac 2005 - This may have to be the other region I visit in Bordeaux.
21) Sterling SVR Reserve -2007 - Back to Napa - holds up very well after all that French wine.
Food and water break -hydrate, hydrate
22) Signorello Estate Padrone - 2007 - Very nice Napa winery on Silverado Trail.
23) Beringer Private Reserve 2007 - last year they were pouring a '96. This wine is amazing and have to get more.
24) Provenance Cab Sauv Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard - 2007. Wine from some of the best terrior in Napa - many wineries have produced wines from this vineyard and they are all special.
25) Cliff Lede Poetry - Stags Leap District 2007 - 1st time I've had this wine and will make a point to visit this winery in Yountville. This was another WOW!
26) DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate Red - Yakima 2007 - One of my favorite wineries in Washington, love thier D2 too.
27) Kosta Browne Pinot Noir - Russian River 2009 - this is huge Pinot.
28) Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir - Dundee Hills Oregon 2008 - had to compare these side by side. More floral than Kosta, but like both...would really depend on the food, choose this one for Alaskan Salmon.

29) Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir - Dundee Hills Oregon 2007 - really starting to like these Oregon Pinots.

30) Maison Louis Latour -Chateau Corton Grancey 2008 - A Grand Cru Pinot Noir based wine.

few more whites and it clears the palate and helps with the purple teeth. :)

31) Gunderloch German Riesling - 2007 - Das Gut!

32) Domaine Chandon Brut - Napa/Sonoma Chardonnay Reserve - Only Chardonnay grapes in this Californian Sparkling Wine - this would be very refreshing on those hot summer days.

33) Roederer Estate Brut Rose' - Anderson Valley - very nice.
34) Gloria Ferrer Brut - Sonoma NV - great sparkler for the price.
35) Schramsberg J. Schram - North Coast 2003 - one of the best from California. Has beat the French in my side by side tastings.
36) Louis Roederer Brut Champagne Premier NV - Great Champagne and its great to try all of these side by side.

37) Chalk Hill Estate Chardonnay - Sonoma 2007. One of my favorite Chards from Sonoma.

38) Planeta Sicilia Cometa - 2008 Italy. 100% Fiano - deep straw color with open fruits like pear on the nose. Very nice.

39) Hess Collection Chardonnay - Napa Su'skol Vineyard 2008.

40) Dow Vintage Port - Quinta Senhora da Ribeira 2008.

And we're done - where are the sliders?

Some of the biggest wines of the night are highlighted - really loved Chateau Margaux, Insignia, Beringer Reserve, but was really impressed by two Bordeaux for price points under $30 Chateau Rollan de By and $50 dollars Chateau de Tertre. Hard to beat. Any time you get to taste this many wines side by side its a special day. And was happy I have a new wine buddy in training now.

Next Wine Spectator Event this October in New York. -Brian

Sandals Emerald Bay

Sandals Emerald Bay has to be the nicest Sandals located on Great Exuma, Bahamas.


Even though the resort was a capacity you'd never know it - its so secluded and peaceful with white sand beaches plus a Greg Norman 18 hole golf course with an amazing back 9 holes along the ocean.

The radio station is in town for a 2 day live broadcast and they treated us to 2 amazing dinners.

Il Cielo:
Salad - Roasted Portabella Mushroom with Balsamic & Walnut Oil
Soup - Butternut Squash with King Crab Flakes
Main - Duet of olive oil poached Jumbo Shrimp & Rosemary scented Beef Tenderloin, Potato puree and veggie medley.
Dessert - Mousse Trio of Flouress Chocolate Cake.
Paired with the Beringer Chardonnay and St. Clement Oroppas blend.

Barefoot on the Beach:
Salad - Barefoot house salad. Local farmed assosted lettuce, bamboo shoots, hard boiled eggs, marinated tomatoes and onions.
Soup - Lobster, Shrimp & Crawfish Bisque.
Main - Grilled Grouper. Habernaro mango butter, bean cassuolet, Lobster Bisque and baby Bok Choy. Or
Hand Cut NY Strip - Maytag Bleu Cheese butter with crispy onions.
Dessert - Mango Mousse with Chocolate Chiffon cake.
Paired with Kunde Chardonnay and Duckhorn Merlot.

-Brian

FIFTH ANNUAL TASTE of HOPE

Champagne Toast Saluti!




"CHARDONNAY CHALLENGE" Napa vs. Sonoma

Cakebread Cellars – Chardonnay 2007 Napa Valley

Ripe and vibrant, with a mix of green apple, melon & pear with a touch of light spicy oak. 89 pts WS.

Lewis Cellars – Chardonnay 2009 Sonoma Russian River

This opulent full-bodies Chardonnay is crafted from the oldest Dutton Ranch plantings. A citrus menagerie of tangerine, orange rind and lemon cream pie with blossoms, honeycomb and floral spice. Only 1,200 cases made. 95 pts WS. we also had Grigch Hills and Flowers Chardonnay in this battle



Chasseur – Pinot Noir 2007 Sonoma Coast Joyce

Complex in flavor and balance, at times spicy with floral rose petal, black cherry that ends with a nie mix of acidity, fruit and tannins. Only 795 cases made. 92 pts WS.

Mueller – Pinot Noir 2007 Russian River Valley Emily's Cuvee

Complex and earthy, showing mineral, plum, black cherry and anise notes that are full bodied with delicate, floral scents of wilted rose petals. Only 1,125 cases made. 91 pts WS.



2001 considered BEST YEAR in Napa since 1997: Let's Find Out



Whitehall Lane– Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Napa Valley

Wonderful intensity with flavors of ripe, juicy plum, black cherry and wild berry fruit with hints of anise, fresh earth and herbal notes with a long rich, persistent aftertaste. 1999 vintage was #5 on Wine Spectator Top 100 93 pts WS.

Dalla Valle – Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Napa Valley

Rich, chewy currant, blackberry, wild berry and cedary oak flavors. It packs a wallop, but on the finish the fruit pours through to reveal lots of depth and complexity. Only 2,000 cases made. 91 pts WS.

Spottswoode – Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 Napa Valley

Elegantly framed, with rich herb, currant, chocolate and black cherry finishing with firm, well-integrated tannins. 4,8256 cases made. 94 pts WS.

Diamond Creek – Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 Napa Red Rock

Firm and concentrated with mint, sage, currant and earthy berry flavors that slowly unfold. Has a lot of richness and detail in the finish. Only 800 cases made. 92 pts WS.



BATTLE OF THE BLENDS "MERITAGE"

(created by merit + heritage) Red Meritage Wines must be a blend of at least two of the following: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab-Franc, Malbec or Petit Verdot. No single grape may make up more than 90%.

Opus One – Napa Valley Red Wine 2007

Tight and firm, with a chewy edge to the dried currant, graphite, blackberry and mineral notes. Full-bodied and intense without being weighty, this is well-structured with a complex, persistent finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. 94 pts in WS.

Viansa - Ossidiana – Sonoma Red Wine 2005

Full bodied, deeply concentrated with a mix of dry cedary oak, currant, anise and sage. Ends with a wall of chewy tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot. Only 500 cases made. 90 pts WE.

Cakebread Cellars - Dancing Bear Ranch 2004 Howell Mt. Napa

Intense aromas of Bing cherry, brambleberry and spicy dark plum fruit with enticing floral, sage, tobacco and chocolate, revealing a pronounced minerality with a long persistent finish. 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot & 10% Cab Franc. 92 pts WS.

Joseph Phelps – Insignia 2003 Napa

Mild tannins with complex range of rich currant, berry and cherry fruit, cedary oak, hints of anise and sage. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Merlot. Drink now - 2011. 90 pts WS.

Flora Spings – Trilogy 2002 Napa Valley

Elegant with a pleasing mix of earth, anise, currant and wild berry that ends with a touch of mineral earthiness. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. 92 pts WS.

Pahlmeyer - Jayson 2001 Napa Valley

Rich, vibrant and intensely concentrated with bold currant, plum, black cherry and spicy flavors accented by spicy, toasty oak and finishing with a firm wall of tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cab Franc. 92 pts WS.

NYC Winter Wine Fest 2011

Manhattan - Join CBS Radio for the 2011 NYC Winter Wine Fest this Saturday, February 5th at the Best Buy Theatre in Times Square.

There are two tasting sessions one at 3pm and the second at 8pm.

Not sure I could handle both... but with this winter weather its almost worth a try...LOL.

Enjoy a special live Jazz performance on the stage and wines from all over the world, but you know you'll find me at the California tables.

for more info and tickets www.wcbsfm.com & www.nywinefestivals.com

See you there,

-Brian

Magical Golf Week

Lake Buena Vista - It's the last PGA Tour stop of the year and I arrive at Orlando International for my magical golf week playing in the Children's Miracle Network Classic for the 2nd year in a row.

6 day until show time so there's plenty of time to get in a little golf practice in the DisneyWorld area.

Saturday my buddy Bob joins me for a round at Lake Buena Vista and I break 90 - we're off to a good start.

Sunday there is a chill in the air and my caddy Jeff who plays on the Golden State Tour joins me for a wonderful round at the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club - voted one of the Top 3 clubs you can play in Florida. First tee Jeff snap hooks one into the weeds and I hit a beautiful draw down the middle - who's the pro here? Driver, Gap Wedge, easy par, easy game. This course starts you off easy and then hold on...shoot a 93 in the wind.

Monday back to Lake Buena Vista and we play it from the back tees and I break 90 again, feeling good about my chances in the Pro-AM.

Tuesday we're signed up for practice round on Disney's Magnolia course - this course just looks right to my eye, big fairways and big greens. We zip through the front 9 and we see Rich Beem cut in front of us on 8 and the whole course backs up. PGA Tour Member Jerry Kelly who had been playing behind us catches up to us on the 10th tee and we tell him about Rich and Jerry says; "Those damn pro's think they can cut in anywhere..." And we immediately love Jerry. He says if its slows down he'll wave us up. We had already teed off, so we watch Jerry blast one down the middle, ride out and hit his next shot to the middle of the green. Jerry is practicing putts from all over the green and waves us up. Well I just couldn't aim at him so I'm in the left bunker. I get up to the green and enter the bunker and Jerry goes; "What are you waiting for? we're going to play the back nine together..." Jeff and I play excellent golf with Jerry on the back nine to the point on #16 after we both put our par 3 shots inside his and he goes; "I'd be in trouble with this group..."(as in he'd be losing $$ if he was giving us strokes)"

Have to say that was one of my most enjoyable nine holes in my life and just the right amount of pressure I needed to be ready to play in the Thursday-Friday Pro-AM inside the ropes. We take pictures after the round and hope to pick him in the pairings party tonight, after all last year we played with Troy Kelly (no relation) but think that's our destiny.

Tuesday night at the pairings party we pick 7 from last and choose Dean Wilson and Alex Cejka. (editor's note': In hindsight Roland Thatcher was still available and he shot 63, 64 in the 1st two rounds but we played with him the year before and he shot 75 and missed the cut...so one of my friends joked he plays a lot better without me...very funny)

Wednesday practice round on the Palm course and almost have a hole in one on 16 so I'm feeling good about my game.

Thursday showtime on the Palm course with Dean Wilson my partner for today and Spencer Levin also in the group. I go the putting green for 40 minutes, off to the range, bunker, shot game practice and more putting. We get to the tee and because of the fog tee times are delayed by an hour. So its back to the putting green. Finally its our time to tee off. "And from New York, New York its Brian Thomas" We start on #10 and hit my 3 wood remembering there's a lot more room down the left side and we're off...when two of the ladies from the Chrildren's Miracle Network Telethon's yell "We Love You Brian..."and Dean Wilson makes a joke that I have a bigger gallery than him. On the Palm course the only hole I'm worried about is our 3rd of the day the par 3 #12 180+ yards that the day before a PGA Tour official is on the green trying to determine pin placements and I shanked two off into the woods in his presence. I hit my 4 iron over the flag to the fringe and I am relieved...chip up and make my 3 for 2 and I'm ecstatic. So the adrenline is flowing so much that on the par 5 #13 over 2 lakes I hit my biggest tee shot of the week just in front of lake #2. I'm left with 177 yard all over water and just to be safe hit the 4 iron and WOW! I cleared the lake and the ball rolls up on the fringe pin high. There in 2! Putting from the fringe and just miss tapping in for Birding just missing the natural Eagle, but it's still a 3 on the score card and we're in the red numbers. On the par 4 #14 I hit a big shot into the wind but land in the left fairway bunker with my ball right against the lip on the left side. I'm 205 out into the wind and I can't stand in the trap, so I bend my knees and take a big swing and put my ball on the green...and I'm thinking to myselft"I don't know whose this guy is but I love his golf game..." You know its a good day when I didn't lose a ball until after14 holes. Dean Wilson looks back and says Wow! I end up at -4 under par and Dean is EVEN par. Since Dean is Hawaiian he likes my joke about my idea for Mexican/Hawaiian restaurant called "Mucho Mahalo" much better than he like his game on Thursday and Dean fails to make the cut.

Friday its an early tee time on Magnolia, but my Pro AM partner Alex Cejka withdrew from the tourney. This take a lot of steam out of my effort on Friday, but we get to play with Mike Hulbert from the Champions Tour and have a great round. Missed another Eagle and lots of birdies on Friday. Funny the other pro Greg Owen and I are both wearing the same Adidas Aqua colored shirt. Sorry Greg.

Final tally I finished 7th...seventh from last. But did so much better this year.

Some of the restaurants of the week:

Narcoosee's at the Grand Floridian - great steaks and wine list and view of the fireworks in the Magic Kingdom.

California Grill - atop the Contemporary Hotel - amazing food and a wine list I love with lots of my faves from Napa.

But the one that stands out is Flying Fish Cafe in Disney's Boardwalk area. Their seafood is amazing including the
Signature Flying Fish Cafe Potato-wrapped Red Snapper - Served with Cream Leek Fondue, Veal Glace and Red Wine Butter Sauce. - $36.00
Signature Flying Fish Char-crusted New York Strip Steak - Served with Wilted Greens, Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Classic Sauce Foyot - $42.00
But the real highlight was the wine. "Pahlmeyer Flight"

1. Jayson by Pahlmeyer Chardonnay '07. The second label of the winery. 100% native yeast, barrel fermentation, followed by malo-lactic fermentation.
2. Jayson Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir '06.
3. Jayson Napa Red '05. A Merlot based Meritage blend.

And on Sunday there was time for one more last round of golf and we had the Palm course all to ourselves and my playing partner was John Schneider - yes that one from Dukes of Hazzard. What a great guy I would tee it up with him anytime.

So I'm a miracle maker for another year but real special thanks goes Al, Craig, Steve, Bill, Pat and everyone at the Children's Miracle Network working together to make a difference in the lives of Children. This year with radio station WCBS-FM in NY we raised over $250,000. Kevin at Disney Golf, Carrie Bronson at WDW Fishing excursions who was our cute guide on Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And to my caddy Jeff Wade - who plays on the Golden State Tour - hope you make it on the big tour one day!

It was a very magical week in Orlando and hope I get the opportunity again next year...

-Brian